Alternative Knife Sharpening Techniques for Busy Cooks

Keeping your knives sharp is critically important whether you're an amateur chef in your home kitchen or simply trying to make a decent sandwich without squishing the bread.

The classic method involves a whetstone, but not everyone has one lying around in their kitchen drawer. So, if you’re like me, living in Portland OR where the culinary scene can inspire you to up your home cooking game, finding alternative methods can be quite handy. Let's explore some effective techniques you can use at home without needing a honing rod.

Using a Ceramic Mug or Plate

First off, let's talk about using a ceramic mug or plate. You know the unglazed part on the bottom that sometimes scratches your table. That's your makeshift sharpening surface. Just run the blade against it at an angle, mimicking the motion you'd use on a whetstone. It's not perfect, but in a pinch, it will give your knife a sharper edge.

Using Sandpaper

Another method involves using sandpaper. Just place a sheet on a flat surface, grit side up. Hold your knife at the appropriate angle and gently drag it across the sandpaper. This method gives you control over the coarseness of the sharpening material, which is great for particularly dull knives. Just remember to use a finer grit as you finish to smooth out the edge.

Using Another Knife

Then there’s the option of using another knife. Yep, you heard that right. You can use the back of one knife, the spine, not the edge, to sharpen the other. Hold the dull knife at an angle and drag it along the spine of the other knife as if you're trying to slice a thin layer off the back. It's a bit tricky and requires some practice and caution but can be effective.

Using a Car Window

Lastly, let’s not forget the trusty car window. Lower your car window halfway, and you have a sharpening tool made from the unglazed edge of the window glass. Just treat it like a whetstone, keeping your knife at a consistent angle and using gentle, controlled strokes. It's surprisingly effective.

Living in Portland has taught me the value of resourcefulness, especially when it comes to embracing a DIY spirit in the kitchen. While these methods may not replace the precision of a good whetstone, they're great in a bind and can keep your blades cutting smoothly until you can give them a proper sharpening. Just remember, safety first. Always keep your fingers away from the blade's edge and take it slow. Happy cooking!